Investing in a home is likely the biggest financial decision of your life. In a growing market like Visakhapatnam, the options are endless, but so are the risks. How do you distinguish between a genuine opportunity and a potential legal nightmare? The answer lies in one critical acronym: RERA.
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, revolutionized property buying in India. For homebuyers in Andhra Pradesh, understanding this Act is the first step toward safe property investment in India. This guide explores why you should strictly stick to RERA approved builders in Vizag and provides a step-by-step tutorial on verifying project legality yourself.
What is RERA and Why is it Critical?
RERA was introduced to protect homebuyers from the malpractices that once plagued the real estate sector, such as project delays, hidden costs, and title disputes.
When a builder in Vizag registers with the Andhra Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (AP RERA), they are legally bound to:
- Transparency: Disclose every detail of the project, including land status, layout plans, and completion schedules.
- Financial Discipline: Deposit 70% of the funds collected from buyers into a separate escrow account. This ensures your money is used only for construction, not diverted to other businesses.
- Timely Delivery: Adhere to strict timelines. If a RERA-approved builder delays possession, they are liable to pay interest to the homebuyer.
- Defect Liability: Rectify structural defects for up to 5 years after possession without charge.
The Risks of Non-RERA Projects
Skipping the RERA check is a gamble. Non-approved projects often face:
- Legal Stalls: Construction can be halted indefinitely due to land litigation or lack of government permissions.
- Title Fraud: Without checking land titles in Visakhapatnam through official channels like IGRS Andhra Pradesh, you risk buying disputed property.
- Zero Accountability: If the builder disappears or halts construction, you have little legal recourse compared to the swift grievance redressal offered by RERA courts.
How to Check RERA Status in Andhra Pradesh (Step-by-Step)
Verifying a builder’s claims is easier than you think. You do not need a lawyer to perform a basic check; you just need your smartphone. Follow this simple process to ensure real estate transparency:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website Go to the official Andhra Pradesh RERA website: https://rera.ap.gov.in/RERA/Views/Home.aspx
Step 2: Navigate to Registered Projects On the menu bar, look for the “Registered” tab. Hover over it and select “Projects” from the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Search for the Project You will see a search bar or a list of projects. You can search by:
- Project Name (e.g., “Eswari Heights”)
- Promoter Name (e.g., “Eswari Group”)
- Registration Number (if provided in the brochure)
Step 4: Verify the Details Once you find the project, click strictly on the “View” or “Certificate” link. Check the following:
- Status: Is it “Active” or “Revoked”?
- Completion Date: Does the date on the website match what the salesperson promised you?
- Litigation History: The portal often lists any past legal issues associated with the developer.
Pro Tip: If a builder claims to be RERA compliant but you cannot find them on this portal, walk away. Legitimate RERA approved builders in Vizag will always have their details publicly visible.
Why Leading Builders like Eswari Group Prioritize RERA
Trust is the currency of real estate. Leading developers understand that RERA isn’t just a rule—it’s a badge of honor that signals reliability to buyers.
Take Eswari Group, for example. As a prominent name among RERA approved builders in Vizag, they have consistently aligned their projects with AP RERA regulations. By choosing a developer with this level of compliance, you ensure:
- Legal Safety: Their land titles are clear and vetted by authorities.
- Peace of Mind: You receive regular updates on construction progress.
- Market Value: RERA-approved properties generally command a better resale value because secondary buyers also prefer safe assets.
Whether you are looking for luxury apartments in Madhurawada or affordable housing near Gajuwaka, choosing a compliant builder safeguards your future.
Final Checklist for a Safe Purchase
Before signing any agreement, ensure you have ticked these boxes:
- [ ] Checked the RERA Registration Number on the AP RERA portal.
- [ ] Verified the “Possession Date” listed on the government website.
- [ ] Confirmed the builder has uploaded the “Commencement Certificate”.
- [ ] Read the draft Agreement for Sale (it must adhere to the RERA format).
Conclusion
The era of blind trust in real estate is over. With tools like the AP RERA portal, real estate transparency is now in your hands. By limiting your search to RERA approved builders in Vizag, you protect your hard-earned savings from fraud and delays.
Don’t settle for verbal promises. Verify the facts, check the status, and invest with confidence.
Ready to find your dream home? Explore RERA-approved ongoing projects by Eswari Group today and experience the difference that safety and quality make.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can a builder sell a property in Vizag without RERA registration?
No. Under the RERA Act, no promoter can advertise, market, book, sell, or offer for sale any real estate project without registering it with the state RERA authority.
Q2: What should I do if a RERA registered builder delays the project?
You have the right to file a complaint on the AP RERA website. You can claim a refund with interest or monthly interest on the delay, as per the Act’s provisions.
Q3: How do I verify land titles in Visakhapatnam?
While the RERA website provides project details, you should also cross-check land records on the AP Meebhoomi Portal to ensure the land title is clear of encumbrances.